If you’ve been living with neuropathy, you know how challenging the most simple things can be – especially sleep! What should be the most peaceful, winding-down part of your day can often feel like an insurmountable challenge. And when you’re lucky enough to fall asleep quickly, the pain associated with neuropathy can suddenly jolt you back to the waking world.
Thankfully, there are several things you can do to regain control over your nightly routine. Let’s take a look at some strategies that can help you get back to the best version of yourself.
Establish a bedtime routine
Sounds simple, right? But anyone with neuropathy knows that routines become disrupted due to pain, tingling, numbness, and the many other physical disturbances associated with the condition.
Even so, it’s imperative that you stick with your routine. Make it a point to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even in moments when you’re feeling restless. Establishing consistency will boost your body’s natural sleep rhythm and will help get you on the path to a better night’s rest.
Stay hydrated
While you probably don’t want to guzzle a pint of water right before bed, it’s critical to stay well-hydrated throughout the day. Many of us make the mistake of thinking that it’s simply about the volume of water you get in a day and forget that water intake needs to happen consistently throughout the day.
Make it a point to have an eight-ounce serving of water every hour or so as your day unfolds. This will help keep your body regulated throughout the night, and is also one of the most basic ways to help lessen the pain and other frustrating sensation associated with neuropathy.
Practice deep-relaxation techniques
Stress can take a massive toll on your sleep, even without neuropathy. There are many ways to relax and unwind at the end of the day, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether it’s meditation, light yoga, deep breathing, or another form of relaxation, find the technique that works for your body.
Transform your sleeping environment into a peaceful oasis. We often overlook little things that can make a big difference in our sleep quality. Small changes like blackout curtains, mattress quality, soft bedding, and mood-enhancing lighting will not cure your neuropathy, but they can work wonders for helping you get into – and stay in – a relaxed state.
To learn more about better sleep practices, check out my video below.
Takeaway
If you’re suffering from neuropathy, you’re not alone, and relief is possible. Whether you choose to go it alone or work with the support of those who have been there, taking a holistic approach to healing can help reverse your neuropathy and get you back to feeling like the best version of yourself.